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Controversial take: The term “influencer” needs to be redefined, and we need to re-examine who we’re buying from. Influencers today represent the pinnacle of modern marketing, influencing decisions on everything from what car to drive to the latest trends in fashion. They profit from every view, click, or purchase—while showcasing lavish lifestyles in the process.
Don’t get me wrong: I’m all for passive income. I have an Amazon shop, an LTK profile, and I’m the first to share a product I genuinely love. The difference? I don’t have 18 color-coordinated Birkins lined up in the background.
Instead of admiring relatable, real people, today’s generation idolizes individuals with unattainable lifestyles. These are people who vacation in the South of France for three weeks at a time, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants every night, and own wardrobes worth the equivalent of a house down payment.
Recently, I listened to a podcast featuring a wellness founder talking about manifestation. Her sense of entitlement—manifesting free $800 facials, luxury vacations, and even an Oura Ring—was one of the most absurd things I’ve ever heard. (Side note: The inclusion of the Oura Ring highlights how much of the influencer facade revolves around having the latest and greatest—not through hard work, but through the expectation of freebies.)
I have far more respect for the single mother sharing her genuine love for the Shark Mop she saved up to purchase than for an influencer being paid to review thousands of dollars in PR packaging.
Why don’t we make normal people with normal lifestyles and everyday struggles the new influencers?
The people who don’t flex their wealth or promote products they wouldn’t even buy themselves?
